This Networking Email Has a 96% Success Rate [Template]

Business professionals are busy people, and the last thing they want is an email from someone who needs a favor. Messages like these can be a distraction and burden

That’s why when I network and send outreach emails, I am careful to always ask for advice and not a favor or handout.

In fact, as I wrote my new book, Wait, How Do I Write This Email?, a collection of 100+ templates for networking, job search, and LinkedIn, I used this tactic multiple times.

Out of 24 outreach emails to people that I wanted to help guide me through the book creation process, 23 of those people responded and offered their help.

That’s a 96% success rate.

Free Download: 25 Proven Sales Email Templates

Bottom line: Business professionals enjoy sharing knowledge, particularly when someone is willing to be a sponge and soak it all up.

That’s why a networking email like the one below, which asks for a favor right away, is the wrong approach.

Relationship-Building Email: What Not to Do

Need an introduction

Hi John,

My name is Jane Smith, and I run Acme Organic Pet Food, a new company that produces and distributes right here in Cleveland. I see on LinkedIn you’re connected to several “big players” in the local pet product business community -- in particular, Jim White over at Acme Pet SuperStore

Would you be willing to introduce me to Jim over email? I’d really appreciate it

Thanks in advance,

Jane

The email is polite, sure. But it has flaws.

Problem 1: Jane assumes John and Jim are friendly.

What if John and Jim don’t know each other very well? And now Jane has asked for a favor that’s either awkward for John to complete or not possible.

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